Nigeria’s Flamingos have secured their spot in the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup following an exhilarating 5-3 win against Benin Republic at the Stade de Kégué in Lomé on Saturday.
Akeem Busari’s team progressed with an 8-5 aggregate, having clinched the first leg of the final qualifying round 3-2 in Ikenne.
The Flamingos started the match brightly, with Mark Akpan scoring the opener just six minutes in.
Benin responded quickly, leveling the score five minutes later thanks to Romaine Gandonou.
However, Nigeria regained control before halftime. Esther Enne Stephen put the visitors ahead again with a brilliant strike, followed by another excellent goal from Queen Joseph, giving the Flamingos a 3-1 advantage at the break.
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Joseph extended Nigeria’s lead from the penalty spot just nine minutes into the second half, solidifying their dominance.
Benin, however, showed resilience and fought back, with Hermionne Lokossou and Gandonou scoring to narrow the gap to 4-3.
The hosts pressed for another goal, but Joseph completed her hat-trick 14 minutes from the end, ensuring a remarkable away victory for the Flamingos.
This result secured Nigeria’s entry into the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, set to take place in Morocco later this year.
The Flamingos will now shift their focus towards preparations for the global event, aiming to enhance their past performances in the tournament.
By Adeboye Amosu
